Update on Operations due to Positive COVID-19 Test

Yesterday, January 19, Marine Atlantic was notified by Nova Scotia public health officials of a positive COVID-19 case involving a Marine Atlantic crew member recently aboard the MV Blue Puttees.

The Public Health Authority in Nova Scotia is conducting contact tracing as is the case with each new confirmed case. The Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador health authorities have identified, out of an abundance of caution, that all crew members who were on the vessel and completed their shift as well as all crew members currently on the vessel will be tested.

To facilitate the required testing, the MV Blue Puttees has been removed from service. Crew members will be tested and then isolate on the vessel until results are received. The vessel will also undergo an enhanced cleaning.

As a result of this change, the Wednesday, January 20, 11:45 North Sydney-Port aux Basques and 23:45 Port aux Basques to North Sydney crossings have been cancelled. The MV Highlanders will remain in service and the MV Atlantic Vision is currently preparing to enter service should it be required in the days ahead. 

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Marine Atlantic’s key principles were focused on protecting the health and safety of its employees and customers, while maintaining our essential service. Marine Atlantic has taken extra precautions to protect against the spread of COVID-19. These measures include enhanced cleaning, additional hand washing, customer screening, physical distancing, reduced passenger limits, isolation requirements, the installation of plexiglass in customer-facing areas, mandatory masks, single occupancy cabins for employees and commercial customers, and the suspension of onboard services.

A further update will be provided once more information becomes available.

Media Contact:

Darrell Mercer, Corporate Communications
Telephone: (709) 772-0073 or (709) 727-2405
E-Mail: [email protected]